Rupp Arena and Lexington Opera House Make History with Top Ratings in Pollstar Mid-Year Report

Lexington, KY (June 24, 2024) – For the first time in history, both Rupp Arena, located at the Central Bank Center, and the Lexington Opera House located in Lexington, Kentucky, have been featured in the Pollstar Mid-Year report.

The Oak View Group managed facilities are hosting more ticketed events each year and continue to break records. “We’re a mid-size market doing major-size business, outperforming cities much larger than us,” said Allie Scarpa, Booking Manager. “Rupp Arena and the Lexington Opera House are living, breathing proof of OVG’s mission to positively disrupt the live entertainment industry.”

The Lexington Opera House, established in 1887, has attained its highest-ever global ranking, securing the #109 spot worldwide and #87 in the U.S. for ticket sales. Local Lexington singer Anne Wilson recently celebrated her new album "Rebel" with a sold-out show in June. Upcoming events feature Primetime Emmy Award-Winning, comedian Wanda Sykes, Dogstar with actor Keanu Reeves, Ben Folds, six top-selling, touring Broadway shows, and many more exciting performances scheduled in the coming months.

Rupp Arena, located at the Central Bank Center in Lexington, Kentucky, also ranked in the Pollstar Mid-Year report. Ranking #37 worldwide and #22 in the U.S. for tickets sold. Attracting over 1.5 million fans annually, Rupp Arena has established itself as the premier venue in Kentucky.

In March 2024, Drake's “It’s All a Blur” tour became the highest-grossing event in Rupp Arena's history. Additionally, Grammy-nominated, stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze made history in 2024 by becoming the top-selling comedian, ever to perform at the venue.

“Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center continues to be the premier venue for Kentucky, hosting the largest tours that attract audiences from all over the region,” said Trevor Chesler, Director of Booking. "Under the skilled management of Oak View Group since 2021, the positive disRUPPtion we have caused has significantly increased the number of shows so our patrons can enjoy the best and biggest performances without leaving Kentucky! From a packed house for Tim McGraw to two upcoming sold-out shows featuring Justin Timberlake and Olivia Rodrigo, we are cementing the legendary status that Rupp Arena has had and will have for many more years!”

For a list of upcoming events, visit RuppArena.com and LexingtonOperaHouse.com